Catalytically active nanocomposites of electronically coupled carbon nanotubes and platinum nanoparticles formed via vacuum filtration

Vacuum filtration is employed to fabricate nanocomposite films of single-walled carbon nanotubes and platinum nanoparticles. Characterization by means of x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, optical spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, electrical conductivity measurements, and cyclic voltammetry reveals a well-dispersed morphology and strong electronic coupling between the carbon nanotubes and the platinum nanoparticles. These nanocomposite films are catalytically active and undergo electrical conductivity modulation in the presence of hydrogen, which suggests their utility in a variety of applications including ones in fuel cells, catalysts, and sensors.